Name: Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini (sliced); 1 cup onion (chopped); 1 cup fresh basil (packed); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream (optional)

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Ah, summer! The sun is shining, the air is warm, and there’s nothing quite like a refreshing bowl of chilled soup to cool you down. That’s where my Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup comes in. It’s a vibrant blend of fresh zucchini and fragrant basil, and trust me, it’s the perfect dish for those hot, lazy days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a scorching July afternoon, and I had just come back from the farmer’s market with a bounty of fresh zucchini. I whipped up this soup, and the first spoonful transported me to a garden party where laughter and sunlight filled the air.

Using fresh ingredients is key; the flavor of ripe, in-season zucchini and aromatic basil makes all the difference. Plus, this soup is quick to prepare—ready in just about 35 minutes! I love serving it chilled, with a drizzle of heavy cream on top for that extra touch of indulgence. So, let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a summer favorite!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup. I always recommend using the freshest ingredients for the best flavor!

4 medium zucchini, sliced
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup fresh basil, packed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream, optional for serving

Make sure to get your zucchini nice and ripe; it’ll make such a difference in taste. Enjoy the chopping and slicing—it’s all part of the fun!

How to Prepare Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This step-by-step guide will walk you through making this refreshing Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup. Just follow along, and you’ll be savoring this delicious soup in no time!

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by heating a little oil in your pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they turn translucent. This step is crucial because it develops a lovely base flavor for your soup, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Cook the Zucchini

Next up, add those sliced zucchini to the pot. Cook them for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nice and soft. This is important! Softening the zucchini helps it blend smoothly into the soup later, giving it that velvety texture we all love.

Step 3: Add Vegetable Broth

Once your zucchini is soft, pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, which should take just a couple of minutes. You’ll know it’s boiling when you see those lovely bubbles breaking the surface. This step is key for melding all those great flavors together!

Step 4: Incorporate Fresh Basil

After you’ve reached a boil, remove the pot from the heat. Now, stir in the fresh basil. Removing the pot from the heat before adding the basil is essential because it keeps that vibrant flavor intact. You want all that aromatic goodness to shine through!

Step 5: Blend and Chill

Now for the fun part! Transfer your mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. I usually blend it for about 30 seconds, but it really depends on how powerful your blender is. Once it’s silky smooth, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling it enhances the flavors, making it the perfect refreshing treat for those hot summer days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip this soup up in no time, perfect for busy summer days!
Fresh Flavors: The combination of ripe zucchini and aromatic basil creates a deliciously refreshing taste that celebrates the best of summer produce.
Healthy and Light: This soup is low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even as a side dish. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature!
Customizable: Want to switch it up? You can easily tweak the recipe with your favorite herbs or add some spices for an extra kick!

Trust me, once you try this Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup, it’ll become your go-to recipe for summer gatherings and weeknight dinners alike!

Equipment Needed

To make this delightful Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup, you’ll need just a couple of essential pieces of equipment. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you start cooking:

Blender: A good blender is a must for achieving that smooth, velvety texture we crave in a chilled soup. Whether you use an immersion blender or a countertop model, just make sure it can handle hot liquids!
Pot: You’ll need a medium-sized pot for sautéing the onions and cooking the zucchini. A heavy-bottomed pot will help distribute heat evenly, which is important for developing flavors.

That’s it! With these two tools, you’ll be well on your way to making this refreshing summer soup. Happy cooking!

Tips for Success

I want your Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup to turn out perfectly every time, so here are some handy tips to help you avoid any common pitfalls:

Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your zucchini and basil, the better your soup will taste. Look for vibrant, firm zucchinis and fragrant basil leaves at the market.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Sautéing the onions until they’re truly translucent is key to building a flavorful base. If you rush this step, you might miss out on that rich depth of flavor.
Blend in Batches if Needed: If your blender isn’t large enough to handle the soup in one go, blend it in batches. Just be careful with the hot liquid; let it cool slightly to avoid splatters!
Chill It Longer: While an hour of chilling is great, letting the soup sit in the fridge for a few hours (or even overnight) allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavors even more!

These little tips will help you create a delicious and refreshing soup that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every spoonful!

Nutritional Information

Curious about what’s in this delicious Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (about one bowl). Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

Calories: 150
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 400mg
Vitamin A: 500 IU
Vitamin C: 30mg
Calcium: 100mg
Iron: 1mg

This soup is not only refreshing but also a light option packed with nutrients, making it a wonderful choice for a health-conscious meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors while feeling good about what you’re eating!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:

Can I make this soup vegan? Absolutely! Just skip the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture without the dairy. Your soup will still be delicious!
How long does this soup last in the fridge? If stored in an airtight container, this soup can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving, as separation may occur.
Can I freeze Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup? Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave out the heavy cream if you plan to freeze it. Once thawed, you can add the cream back in for that rich finish!
What can I serve with this soup? This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette, a fresh garden salad, or even some grilled shrimp if you want to add a protein kick. It’s super versatile!
Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Of course! Feel free to toss in some spinach, kale, or even a little broccoli for added nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Hopefully, these answers help you as you whip up your own batch of Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup. Enjoy every refreshing spoonful!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup, the right accompaniments can elevate the whole meal experience! Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this refreshing soup:

Crusty Baguette: A slice of warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into your soup. The textures play wonderfully together!
Fresh Garden Salad: Serve alongside a light, crisp salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing contrast that complements the soup beautifully.
Grilled Shrimp or Chicken: For those looking to add some protein, grilled shrimp or chicken seasoned with lemon and herbs works like a charm. It adds a lovely heartiness to the meal.
Cheese Platter: Create a simple cheese platter with fresh mozzarella, goat cheese, or a tangy feta. The creaminess of the cheese pairs nicely with the soup’s flavors.
Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle a bit of herb-infused olive oil over the soup before serving for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a simple touch that looks elegant too!

These suggestions will not only enhance your Chilled Zucchini Basil Soup but also make your meal feel more complete and satisfying. Enjoy the delightful combinations!

For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out my Pinterest page!